SC Nebraska News

Today, Representatives Adrian Smith and Angie Craig introduced the Nationwide Consumer and Fuel Retailer Choice Act. This bipartisan legislation aims to extend the Reid Vapor Pressure volatility waiver, allowing year-round sales of ethanol blends up to 15 percent nationwide. The bill is supported by a group of lawmakers including Reps. Dusty Johnson, Nikki Budzinski, Mariannette Miller-Meeks, and Sharice Davids.

In the Senate, companion legislation was introduced by Senators Deb Fischer and Tammy Duckworth. Rep. Smith stated, "I have been fighting to eliminate unnecessary, unscientific, and misguided barriers to E15 access since 2010." He emphasized the importance of codifying year-round E15 for producers and consumers.

Rep. Craig highlighted biofuels as tools to address climate change and reduce costs at gas pumps. "This bill is the kind of commonsense legislation we need more of in Washington," she said.

Senator Fischer noted that her bill would fulfill President Trump's pledge for year-round E15 sales: "It’s time to once and for all solidify President Trump’s pledge."

Senator Duckworth emphasized investing in renewable energy: “Producing less expensive fuel choices like E15 that can be sold year-round would help lower gas prices.”

The act has received broad support from stakeholders such as the Nebraska Farm Bureau Federation, Renewable Fuels Nebraska, Nebraska Corn Growers Association, Growth Energy, Renewable Fuels Association (RFA), American Petroleum Institute (API), National Corn Growers Association (NCGA), National Association of Convenience Stores (NACS), and National Farmers Union (NFU).

John Fuher from Growth Energy stated: "We hope this is the bill that finally makes it over the finish line." RFA's Geoff Cooper added that the legislation would bring stability to the marketplace: “Time is of the essence.” API's Kristin Whitman called for congressional action to ensure market consistency.

Kenneth Hartman Jr., NCGA President, applauded the sponsors for introducing beneficial legislation for consumers and farmers alike. Doug Kantor from NACS highlighted how this would improve environmental attributes while lowering costs.

NFU President Rob Larew expressed support for family farmers through reliable markets created by this legislation.

Rep. Smith has long advocated for year-round availability of E15 in Congress.